Convenience store found selling imported foods without certified halal labels

KUANTAN - Pahang Domestic Trade and Living Cost Ministry (KPDN) has taken action against a convenience store for selling imported food products using uncertified halal logos.

An inspection carried out by the state KPDN enforcement officers along with the Pahang Islamic Religion Department (Jaip) on food items sold at the premises found imported chocolates using foreign Islamic bodies' halal logos that are not recognised by the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim).

Pahang KPDN director Jezlily Jamaluddin revealed that they had seized 240 packs of imported chocolates worth RM2,616 for further action.

According to him, the case is being investigated under the offence of Order 8(b) of the Trade Description (Halal Certification and Marking) Order 2011 for violating Order 5(1) of the Trade Description (Halal Certification and Marking) 2011.

"The inspection was carried out at about 3pm on Wednesday following a public complaint regarding premises selling various imported foods that do not have a halal certificate," he said in a statement today.

Jezlily stressed that KPDN had given a stern warning to related individuals or companies to comply with the legislation stipulated under the Trade Information (Halal Certification and Marking) Order, Trade Information Act 2011.

"The punishment provided for that offence is a fine not exceeding RM100,000, and for subsequent offences, a fine not exceeding RM250,000 or imprisonment not exceeding three years, or both, for individuals.

"For the company, if convicted, it can be fined not more than RM250,000 and not more than RM500,000 for subsequent offences," he added.